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KUALA LUMPUR – It is best for Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to defend himself in court as claims of selective prosecution have been addressed, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“What more does he want to say? For me, he better focus on the court case. Answer in court as the charges have been made,” Anwar told reporters after launching the World Water Day 2023 celebration at Ipoh’s Indera Mulia Stadium.
He added that Muhyiddin’s allegations of political prosecution have been addressed by the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), reported The Star.
Yesterday, the attorney-general said in a statement that charges were brought against individuals based on the provisions of the law, regardless of status and background.
“Following allegations of selective prosecution and politically motivated persecution in recent cases, the Attorney-General’s Chambers stresses that the decision to charge any person is based on the evidence and facts resulting from the investigation, and not at the insistence of any other party or factor.
“The chambers deny allegations of selective prosecution.”
Meanwhile, the MACC said the investigation into Jana Wibawa was independent and free of interference from any party.
“The accusation that the MACC investigation was ordered by certain parties and was politically motivated is not true at all and has damaged the image of this commission.”
This follows protests by Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional (PN) leaders over the charging of former prime minister Muhyiddin earlier for abuse of power and receiving illicit funds.
The Pagoh MP and PN chairman was charged yesterday with four counts of abuse of power involving RM232.5 million and two charges of receiving RM195 million in illicit funds. He has claimed trial to all charges.
The four charges of abuse of power are framed under Section 23(1) of the MACC Act 2009. If found guilty, Muhyiddin faces a maximum of 20 years in jail and a fine of not less than five times the sum or value of the gratification or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
The four parties whom Muhyiddin is accused of having solicited money from were named in the charge sheets as Bukhary Equity, Nepturis Sdn Bhd, Mamfor Sdn Bhd, and one Azman Yusoff.
The other two charges involving illicit funds received from Bukhary Equity are framed under Section 4(1)(b) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.
Some of the funds received allegedly went to the accounts of Bersatu, which Muhyiddin leads.
About 100 party supporters had gathered outside the Kuala Lumpur court complex to show support while he was charged, alleging political persecution of their leaders.
Muhyiddin has also called the charges against him “selective prosecution” and slander. – The Vibes, March 11, 2023